What do you think?
Rate this book
Finest Kind of Fate
Not yet published
Expected 27 Feb 26Ewan Fate left home seven years ago never intending to stay gone. Now, he’s wondering how he’ll ever manage to go back. When an extended creative block and an inability to paint puts his career in jeopardy, he packs his bags, ignores his doubts, and travels home to the east coast.
The sleepy little fishing town of Siren’s Point isn’t so sleepy when Ewan comes back to town. Nothing much has changed since he’s been away— the locals still gossip, the lobstermen still haul traps, and Shiloh Lepage is still the love of his life.
Shiloh spends his days on the ocean, and his nights alone. He feels stuck in a relationship that has gone stagnant. He misses a childhood friend he hasn’t spoken to in seven years, and should have long given up on. He doesn’t know what else to do, and so he simply goes on.
Ewan is supposed to be on vacation. He’s supposed to be relaxing, and, if he’s lucky, finding himself again. But all he’s found is a rekindling of desire that never quite went away, no matter how many miles he put between himself and Shiloh. Now back in Siren’s Point, he finds himself confronted with old fears, new choices, and the realization that some things will never change.
The sleepy little fishing town of Siren’s Point isn’t so sleepy when Ewan comes back to town. Nothing much has changed since he’s been away— the locals still gossip, the lobstermen still haul traps, and Shiloh Lepage is still the love of his life.
Shiloh spends his days on the ocean, and his nights alone. He feels stuck in a relationship that has gone stagnant. He misses a childhood friend he hasn’t spoken to in seven years, and should have long given up on. He doesn’t know what else to do, and so he simply goes on.
Ewan is supposed to be on vacation. He’s supposed to be relaxing, and, if he’s lucky, finding himself again. But all he’s found is a rekindling of desire that never quite went away, no matter how many miles he put between himself and Shiloh. Now back in Siren’s Point, he finds himself confronted with old fears, new choices, and the realization that some things will never change.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 27, 2026
4 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 8, 2026
If JJ Mulder writes it, I’m reading it. I dropped everything the second this ARC was available and then attempted to read it in one sitting (I did eventually fall asleep around 2am). The characters made my heart ache. She’s never written a character I don’t love. Also maybe crazy to say but I already can’t wait for the next one in this series.
Review of advance copy
OMG this book 😭🩵 I was not emotionally prepared for what Finest Kind of Fate put me through. I knew we were getting second-chance, friends-to-lovers angst… but my HEART??? demolished. The inner thoughts alone had me staring at the wall and then straight up sobbing multiple times. From page one I was rooting for them so hard it hurt.
Also… Siren’s Point??? 🐚🌊 I would pack my bags and move immediately. Drop everything. Cancel responsibilities. That town feels like a soft place to land and I want to live there yesterday.
Ewan broke me. Poor man is spiralling — creative block, insomnia, anxiety, imposter syndrome — and escaping his chaotic LA life by going back to the home he ran from 7 years ago. He’s fragile in that quiet, aching way where you can feel how tired he is.
And then there’s Shiloh 🦞
our shy lobsterman who absolutely owns my whole heart. He never really healed after Ewan left and built a simple life to survive the hurt… and then boom, Ewan returns and everything shifts again.
Every scene with them??? You can feel the pull instantly. The chemistry is soft but intense — one needs caring, the other instinctively gives it, and underneath all of it is this deep love that never actually went away 🥺
The spice is gentle and low-key 🔥 but honestly it fits the story perfectly. Would I personally have complained about more? No 😌 But their connection carried every moment so it never felt lacking.
And the side characters 👀 I need their stories immediately. This book sets up such a cozy emotional world and I am already impatiently waiting for whoever comes next because I want everyone’s backstory.
This one hurt in the best way — tender, healing, aching, and full of quiet love 💙
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!*
Also… Siren’s Point??? 🐚🌊 I would pack my bags and move immediately. Drop everything. Cancel responsibilities. That town feels like a soft place to land and I want to live there yesterday.
Ewan broke me. Poor man is spiralling — creative block, insomnia, anxiety, imposter syndrome — and escaping his chaotic LA life by going back to the home he ran from 7 years ago. He’s fragile in that quiet, aching way where you can feel how tired he is.
And then there’s Shiloh 🦞
our shy lobsterman who absolutely owns my whole heart. He never really healed after Ewan left and built a simple life to survive the hurt… and then boom, Ewan returns and everything shifts again.
Every scene with them??? You can feel the pull instantly. The chemistry is soft but intense — one needs caring, the other instinctively gives it, and underneath all of it is this deep love that never actually went away 🥺
The spice is gentle and low-key 🔥 but honestly it fits the story perfectly. Would I personally have complained about more? No 😌 But their connection carried every moment so it never felt lacking.
And the side characters 👀 I need their stories immediately. This book sets up such a cozy emotional world and I am already impatiently waiting for whoever comes next because I want everyone’s backstory.
This one hurt in the best way — tender, healing, aching, and full of quiet love 💙
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!*
February 17, 2026
Thank you so much @authorjjmulder for the digital copy to review.
I don’t know how JJ does it. Every single book she writes, I fall so deeply in love with our main characters. I end up with hundreds of highlights. I sigh and laugh and cry and wonder how she took the emotions out of my body and the thoughts out of my brain. I captured 18 quotes here to share and it’s not enough.
Ewan and Shiloh are souls intertwined. From the moment you meet them, the air crackles with electricity. The guarded way they act after being hurt. The desire. The fear. The love. The friendship. The way they bare their souls. The loneliness they both feel. Vulnerability. Communication. So so much more love.
I won’t spoil anything for you but I planned a lobster tattoo already for these two (shoutout to @tattoomartian for being on board for any idea I have) because they mean so much to my heart. I’m afraid I’m more like Ewan, but I have Shiloh’s lonely heart in the beginning.
I just love them and can’t recommend this book highly enough.
I don’t know how JJ does it. Every single book she writes, I fall so deeply in love with our main characters. I end up with hundreds of highlights. I sigh and laugh and cry and wonder how she took the emotions out of my body and the thoughts out of my brain. I captured 18 quotes here to share and it’s not enough.
Ewan and Shiloh are souls intertwined. From the moment you meet them, the air crackles with electricity. The guarded way they act after being hurt. The desire. The fear. The love. The friendship. The way they bare their souls. The loneliness they both feel. Vulnerability. Communication. So so much more love.
I won’t spoil anything for you but I planned a lobster tattoo already for these two (shoutout to @tattoomartian for being on board for any idea I have) because they mean so much to my heart. I’m afraid I’m more like Ewan, but I have Shiloh’s lonely heart in the beginning.
I just love them and can’t recommend this book highly enough.
February 11, 2026
4.5*
I really enjoyed this! I started this book before going to bed and it kept me up far later than I thought it would with the little angst and miscommunication in the beginning. I just had to see that get sorted out before going to sleep. I loved how Ewan and Shiloh basically went right back to how they were with each other seven years ago, showing that even with that much time away from each other they still knew each other really well. I loved the setting of this book, the vibe of this town was so clear and easy to picture in my head. I also enjoyed some of the side characters, Oliver and Nils specifically and I really hope they get a book!
I really enjoyed this! I started this book before going to bed and it kept me up far later than I thought it would with the little angst and miscommunication in the beginning. I just had to see that get sorted out before going to sleep. I loved how Ewan and Shiloh basically went right back to how they were with each other seven years ago, showing that even with that much time away from each other they still knew each other really well. I loved the setting of this book, the vibe of this town was so clear and easy to picture in my head. I also enjoyed some of the side characters, Oliver and Nils specifically and I really hope they get a book!
February 17, 2026
The scream I scrempt when this ARC hit my inbox.
This story was heart-aching AND heart-warming. Packed with all the feels of being a human just trying to survive AND do right by the people we love.
JJ’s writing has a way of pulling you in, cocooning you in this cozy bubble, even when shit is going sideways. I felt all their worries, their happiness, their frustrations, their pain, their regrets, their embarrassment, their love, their yearning DEAR GOD THE PINING WAS SOO GOOD.
May this kind, patient love find us all.
This story was heart-aching AND heart-warming. Packed with all the feels of being a human just trying to survive AND do right by the people we love.
JJ’s writing has a way of pulling you in, cocooning you in this cozy bubble, even when shit is going sideways. I felt all their worries, their happiness, their frustrations, their pain, their regrets, their embarrassment, their love, their yearning DEAR GOD THE PINING WAS SOO GOOD.
May this kind, patient love find us all.
February 21, 2026
ARC Review!
I know I've said I'm not an ARC person, they make me nervous blah blah blah. In my defense though authors I trust with my reading experience are releasing books!!
This book is what I would describe as sweet, soft, gentle, patient kind of love. Does that make sense? I don't know but it does to me. Loved Shilo so much, definitely my favorite character. He was so shy and sooo in love. He would do anything for Ewan regardless of the time spent apart! He showed his love in everything he did. Their communication at the start was rocky, but towards the end they did so well trying to communicate how they felt and how things were going to possibly be going forward. I would have like to see more of Roy but I will say I'm now really intrigued by his character and I want to see more. Same goes for Nial! I loved the sleepy fisherman town and the nosy neighbors. Loved Ewan's scrabble loving assistant and how good he was for Ewan. I can't wait to continue the series, so yea I definitely recommend it.
I know I've said I'm not an ARC person, they make me nervous blah blah blah. In my defense though authors I trust with my reading experience are releasing books!!
This book is what I would describe as sweet, soft, gentle, patient kind of love. Does that make sense? I don't know but it does to me. Loved Shilo so much, definitely my favorite character. He was so shy and sooo in love. He would do anything for Ewan regardless of the time spent apart! He showed his love in everything he did. Their communication at the start was rocky, but towards the end they did so well trying to communicate how they felt and how things were going to possibly be going forward. I would have like to see more of Roy but I will say I'm now really intrigued by his character and I want to see more. Same goes for Nial! I loved the sleepy fisherman town and the nosy neighbors. Loved Ewan's scrabble loving assistant and how good he was for Ewan. I can't wait to continue the series, so yea I definitely recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was one of the lucky people who got JJ Mulder’s ARC of Finest Kind of Fate, the first book in her new series! I’m so grateful for this opportunity, as she’s one of my favourite authors.
This book was the best one I read this year. On the evening when I started it, I only wanted to read 10 to 20 pages as it was already late, but I was hooked right from the beginning and ended up reading the first 100 pages – I went to bed at half past one. Ewan and Shiloh are amazing characters, and every aspect of the story felt deeply developed down to the smallest detail. Even the side characters, such as Oliver and Nils, were able to captivate my interest, so I really hope the next book will be about them :)
This second chance romance has everything that is needed: loveable characters, hurt, character development, forgiveness, and so much hope. Both Ewan and Shiloh are hopeful, even though it doesn’t seem like there will be a happy ending at the beginning. Nevertheless, they try to make the best of the short time they have with each other. I loved that they made so many trips together, like going hiking or to the lighthouse. Even though they are complete opposites in some aspects, they fit so well together. Shiloh’s steady and reliable presence worked wonders for Ewan, and I was so happy for them.
As I don’t want to spoil anything, I can’t tell you my favourite part of the story – I’ll just say that character development, determination, and grand, sweet gestures are involved. I can highly recommend this book to every romance lover, as there isn’t a single boring page. If you’ve read this book and still want more, I can also recommend the SCU Hockey series by JJ Mulder, as these characters are equally amazing and interesting.
This book will be available on the 27th of February, so mark that date in your calendar!
10 out of 10
This book was the best one I read this year. On the evening when I started it, I only wanted to read 10 to 20 pages as it was already late, but I was hooked right from the beginning and ended up reading the first 100 pages – I went to bed at half past one. Ewan and Shiloh are amazing characters, and every aspect of the story felt deeply developed down to the smallest detail. Even the side characters, such as Oliver and Nils, were able to captivate my interest, so I really hope the next book will be about them :)
This second chance romance has everything that is needed: loveable characters, hurt, character development, forgiveness, and so much hope. Both Ewan and Shiloh are hopeful, even though it doesn’t seem like there will be a happy ending at the beginning. Nevertheless, they try to make the best of the short time they have with each other. I loved that they made so many trips together, like going hiking or to the lighthouse. Even though they are complete opposites in some aspects, they fit so well together. Shiloh’s steady and reliable presence worked wonders for Ewan, and I was so happy for them.
As I don’t want to spoil anything, I can’t tell you my favourite part of the story – I’ll just say that character development, determination, and grand, sweet gestures are involved. I can highly recommend this book to every romance lover, as there isn’t a single boring page. If you’ve read this book and still want more, I can also recommend the SCU Hockey series by JJ Mulder, as these characters are equally amazing and interesting.
This book will be available on the 27th of February, so mark that date in your calendar!
10 out of 10
Review of advance copy received from Author
Seven years ago, Ewan left his home and is heart behind in Siren’s Point. The loss of his mother, the feelings he was having for his best friend, and the need to try and make his artistic dreams come true were the drive. But though he was successful in his career, it wasn’t an easy seven years. Not when his heart was with his best friend, Shiloh. And who he hasn’t spoken to since. But now, he needs a break. His art suffering and he suddenly has this idea to go home. He knows it won’t be easy. Not how he left and how he hasn’t reached out. He has amends to make and maybe it’s time to face his feelings. Shiloh knew Ewan had to leave. He understood. He just hoped Ewan wouldn’t completely shut him out when he did. He never got over it. And he never tried reaching out even when he was met back with silence. But perhaps he does need to move on this time? But just as the thought crosses his mind, Ewan returns home. A long conversation is well overdue and perhaps it is time to come clean about his own feelings for his best friend. A sweet and beautiful second chance for these two. It is clear to anyone that these two were always meant to be together. They just took their sweet time getting there! I loved watching Ewan and Shiloh reconnect and reaffirm the love they have for one another. We have a brand new town with a lot of interesting character. I can’t wait to see who’s story is next!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finest kind of fate
A Siren’s Point Story Book 1
JJ Mulder
Ewan & Shiloh
First lover
Second Chance
Found Family
“It’as always been you”
“You Left” “I came back”
Lobster paintings
Yeah, so this was absolutely stunning. I am a massive fan of JJ Mulder, any book the author puts out I read.
This is a new series set in Sirens Point. A little fishing town.
Eek, my heart. Ewan and Shiloh were everything.
After years of being separated, longing and pining for their best friend and first love, Ewan is back in Sirens Point.
These two have some work to get back what they once had. I appreciated the slowish burn of this. It felt natural and right. The bit of angst and tension in the beginning was perfect.
I also love how JJ writes about intimacy and spice. It's always unique and not always traditional in a sense. It's beautiful.
This was beautifully written, sweet, tender but also intimate and vulnerable, the angst and tension was superb. I love how these two found their way back together again.
Shiloh has not been the same since Ewan left, I think the whole town knew this. Shiloh’s reactions to certain situations I loved, it felt honest and real.
Shiloh has poured his heart out for years, in so many ways. Oh my heart, protect him at all costs.
The found family, and sleepy little town was fantastic.
There is truly something special about the way JJ Mulder writes.
I cannot wait to read more from this series.
So thankful for this arc
A Siren’s Point Story Book 1
JJ Mulder
Ewan & Shiloh
First lover
Second Chance
Found Family
“It’as always been you”
“You Left” “I came back”
Lobster paintings
Yeah, so this was absolutely stunning. I am a massive fan of JJ Mulder, any book the author puts out I read.
This is a new series set in Sirens Point. A little fishing town.
Eek, my heart. Ewan and Shiloh were everything.
After years of being separated, longing and pining for their best friend and first love, Ewan is back in Sirens Point.
These two have some work to get back what they once had. I appreciated the slowish burn of this. It felt natural and right. The bit of angst and tension in the beginning was perfect.
I also love how JJ writes about intimacy and spice. It's always unique and not always traditional in a sense. It's beautiful.
This was beautifully written, sweet, tender but also intimate and vulnerable, the angst and tension was superb. I love how these two found their way back together again.
Shiloh has not been the same since Ewan left, I think the whole town knew this. Shiloh’s reactions to certain situations I loved, it felt honest and real.
Shiloh has poured his heart out for years, in so many ways. Oh my heart, protect him at all costs.
The found family, and sleepy little town was fantastic.
There is truly something special about the way JJ Mulder writes.
I cannot wait to read more from this series.
So thankful for this arc
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh! How beautiful! Shiloh and Ewan have my heart. What a wonderful second chance romance with epic levels of sublime pining. These characters are truly phenomenal. Opposites and yet intrinsically bound. Almost fated.
This is different and yet the same from what I’ve come to expect from JJ Mulder- evocative descriptions, deep emotions, swoony love. I felt transported, the wind on the ocean, sand beneath my feet, bird sounds in my ears, waves whispering, trees snuffling, salt on my skin.
Eyes drinking in the beauty of nature that JJ weaved through the story, as much part of it as the characters.
This is such a slow burn but there is no anxiousness to get to the end, it’s a lovely journey and when they ignite they set pages on fire.
The found family and small town feels are spot on as is the mental health rep.
Highly recommend reading this. Sharing snippets of what I was shouting into the void when I was reading this.
Oh I underlined everything, I have 12758393 highlights. I want to cry and scream and live on a fishing boat and I just started. Oh I want to hug Shilo. Ah Ewan, sorry your heart hurts and it’s gonna be better by the end of the book, JJ promised. Oh the emails have killed me dead. Oh I like this Dryden Roy.. give him hell indeed!! I love Daniel does he get a story, does Dryden even tho he turned out to be dickish. Ooooh Nils and Oliver 😍. Oh Dryden 🙈🥺! Surprise somno discussions, my favourite 🔥
This is different and yet the same from what I’ve come to expect from JJ Mulder- evocative descriptions, deep emotions, swoony love. I felt transported, the wind on the ocean, sand beneath my feet, bird sounds in my ears, waves whispering, trees snuffling, salt on my skin.
Eyes drinking in the beauty of nature that JJ weaved through the story, as much part of it as the characters.
This is such a slow burn but there is no anxiousness to get to the end, it’s a lovely journey and when they ignite they set pages on fire.
The found family and small town feels are spot on as is the mental health rep.
Highly recommend reading this. Sharing snippets of what I was shouting into the void when I was reading this.
Oh I underlined everything, I have 12758393 highlights. I want to cry and scream and live on a fishing boat and I just started. Oh I want to hug Shilo. Ah Ewan, sorry your heart hurts and it’s gonna be better by the end of the book, JJ promised. Oh the emails have killed me dead. Oh I like this Dryden Roy.. give him hell indeed!! I love Daniel does he get a story, does Dryden even tho he turned out to be dickish. Ooooh Nils and Oliver 😍. Oh Dryden 🙈🥺! Surprise somno discussions, my favourite 🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
J.J. Mulder has easily found her way onto my list of auto-buy authors since the SCU series, and with this not being a hockey romance, I couldn’t wait to see what she had in store for us.
This book has my name written all over it: a second-chance romance between childhood best friends with soooo much pining it even made my heart ache. Top it all off with an artistic MMC and the setting of a small beach town, and you have the perfect book for me.
Don’t let the miscommunication at the beginning stop you from picking it up. It’s perfectly executed and gets cleared up in just the right amount of time.
If I had to say anything negative, it’s only that I wish we had gotten to see more of the ending. I wonder how Shilow and Ewan navigated being apart again for a longer amount of time. But apart from that, I enjoyed every little piece of the story we got with them.
As with every series J.J. Mulder writes, I can’t wait to see where the story goes for Oliver and Nils. Both caught my attention from their very first time on page, and with them being so different from each other, I wonder if an opposites-attract story might be happening for them?
Tropes:
Childhood best friends to lovers
Small town
Pining
Slow burn
Artistic mmc
Shy mmc
Spice
2/5
Info:
Names: Shilow and Ewan
Age: 25 & 25
POV: Dual, first person
Third act break up:
This book has my name written all over it: a second-chance romance between childhood best friends with soooo much pining it even made my heart ache. Top it all off with an artistic MMC and the setting of a small beach town, and you have the perfect book for me.
Don’t let the miscommunication at the beginning stop you from picking it up. It’s perfectly executed and gets cleared up in just the right amount of time.
If I had to say anything negative, it’s only that I wish we had gotten to see more of the ending. I wonder how Shilow and Ewan navigated being apart again for a longer amount of time. But apart from that, I enjoyed every little piece of the story we got with them.
As with every series J.J. Mulder writes, I can’t wait to see where the story goes for Oliver and Nils. Both caught my attention from their very first time on page, and with them being so different from each other, I wonder if an opposites-attract story might be happening for them?
Tropes:
Childhood best friends to lovers
Small town
Pining
Slow burn
Artistic mmc
Shy mmc
Spice
2/5
Info:
Names: Shilow and Ewan
Age: 25 & 25
POV: Dual, first person
Third act break up:
Review of advance copy received from Author
This has been such a fun and cozy read. And it had so much pinning, I don´t know how nothing exploded (or maybe it did, who knows?)
This is the story of Ewan, a painter who left his village seven years ago, after his mother´s passing, and who now has decided to come back on vacation... Or well, he should be on vacation. In truth, he is part pinning for Shiloh, his childhood best friend, and in part trying not to drown in self hatred due to artist´s block.
And yes, I feel this last one deeply. Who hasn´t encountered some difficulty at continuing some kind of artistic job at some point?
Anyway. Shiloh, meanwhile, is a fisherman who has always been living in this village and supporting his friend despite the guy didn´t give signals of being alive for those seven years (yes, the pinning is so heavy in this one I´m surprised I´m not buried beyond it).
That being said. There´s barely no angst and, once they solve all the miscomunication, this ends up pretty well. I recommend.
(Also, side note to say this is the beginning of a new series and the book did a nice job in getting me interested in the side characters... So I cannot wait to see what´s in store for them in the next books).
This is the story of Ewan, a painter who left his village seven years ago, after his mother´s passing, and who now has decided to come back on vacation... Or well, he should be on vacation. In truth, he is part pinning for Shiloh, his childhood best friend, and in part trying not to drown in self hatred due to artist´s block.
And yes, I feel this last one deeply. Who hasn´t encountered some difficulty at continuing some kind of artistic job at some point?
Anyway. Shiloh, meanwhile, is a fisherman who has always been living in this village and supporting his friend despite the guy didn´t give signals of being alive for those seven years (yes, the pinning is so heavy in this one I´m surprised I´m not buried beyond it).
That being said. There´s barely no angst and, once they solve all the miscomunication, this ends up pretty well. I recommend.
(Also, side note to say this is the beginning of a new series and the book did a nice job in getting me interested in the side characters... So I cannot wait to see what´s in store for them in the next books).
February 14, 2026
4.5 ✨ rounded up!
This is a first from the author for me but I have a lot of their books on my TBR and have been lucky enough to be given the chance to read this ARC.
This book will get you right in the heart and it won’t let you go until the last page.
A second chance friends to lovers romance with 7 years apart. Watching these guys reconnect and build a new and different kind of relationship gave me all the feels. It takes a lot for me to cry or get teary eyed but i definitely had the tears welling up and sniffles going on. I don’t want to give too much away because I’m trying to keep things as spoiler free as possible but do yourself a favor and cuddle up with a cozy blanket and get ready to not be able to put this down for a few hours.
The spice was mild but it fit for this story. It’s not about the sex but the emotional chemistry and connection you see and feel between the characters is what’s most important here. Not every story needs to have intense spicy scenes and this if one of them. What we got was perfect for the characters and the story. 2/5 🌶️
I can’t wait to dive into more book by this author!
Thank you to the author for this ARC! All thoughts are my own.
This is a first from the author for me but I have a lot of their books on my TBR and have been lucky enough to be given the chance to read this ARC.
This book will get you right in the heart and it won’t let you go until the last page.
A second chance friends to lovers romance with 7 years apart. Watching these guys reconnect and build a new and different kind of relationship gave me all the feels. It takes a lot for me to cry or get teary eyed but i definitely had the tears welling up and sniffles going on. I don’t want to give too much away because I’m trying to keep things as spoiler free as possible but do yourself a favor and cuddle up with a cozy blanket and get ready to not be able to put this down for a few hours.
The spice was mild but it fit for this story. It’s not about the sex but the emotional chemistry and connection you see and feel between the characters is what’s most important here. Not every story needs to have intense spicy scenes and this if one of them. What we got was perfect for the characters and the story. 2/5 🌶️
I can’t wait to dive into more book by this author!
Thank you to the author for this ARC! All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
JJ has seriously outdone herself with this one. Every time I think she can’t possibly write a more lovable character, she turns around and proves me wrong.
Shiloh might have officially surpassed Henri as the most patient man alive—and if you don’t know Henri, go read On the Edge immediately. Shiloh is just… beautiful. He’s vulnerable in a way that aches, selfless without being a pushover, and so genuinely sweet it hurts. You can’t help but fall for him.
Ewan, meanwhile, made me want to shake him (affectionately). He’s drowning in doubt but somehow completely convinced he doesn’t deserve the things he wants most. He overthinks, hesitates, and absolutely makes things harder than they need to be. But luckily for him, Shiloh isn’t going anywhere. His patience feels intentional, not weak—and that makes all the difference.
This book is a departure from JJ’s previous interconnected hockey universe, but don’t let that scare you off. The heart is still very much there. It’s a gorgeous story, and I’m already excited to see where this new series goes next.
Shiloh might have officially surpassed Henri as the most patient man alive—and if you don’t know Henri, go read On the Edge immediately. Shiloh is just… beautiful. He’s vulnerable in a way that aches, selfless without being a pushover, and so genuinely sweet it hurts. You can’t help but fall for him.
Ewan, meanwhile, made me want to shake him (affectionately). He’s drowning in doubt but somehow completely convinced he doesn’t deserve the things he wants most. He overthinks, hesitates, and absolutely makes things harder than they need to be. But luckily for him, Shiloh isn’t going anywhere. His patience feels intentional, not weak—and that makes all the difference.
This book is a departure from JJ’s previous interconnected hockey universe, but don’t let that scare you off. The heart is still very much there. It’s a gorgeous story, and I’m already excited to see where this new series goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
J.J. Mulder just never misses!
I first discovered J.J. Mulder last summer, and promptly read her entire backlog. She has been cemented as one of my auto-buy authors, so I was so excited to receive an ARC of her newest series debut. I've yet to read a book by her that I didn't love, and Finest Kind of Fate is no exception.
I wasn't quite sure what to expect going into this one, as it is quite a divergence from the sport-centred settings of her previous series. But Finest Kind of Fate has the same excellent writing, poignant emotions, and pure heart and love of her previous series. The relationship that forms between Ewan and Shiloh as they reconnect after 7 years apart is incredibly sweet and organic, and just perfectly written.
Finest Kind of Fate is a wonderful second chance, friends to lovers romance. Low angst, high feels. Cannot wait for the rest of the series!
I first discovered J.J. Mulder last summer, and promptly read her entire backlog. She has been cemented as one of my auto-buy authors, so I was so excited to receive an ARC of her newest series debut. I've yet to read a book by her that I didn't love, and Finest Kind of Fate is no exception.
I wasn't quite sure what to expect going into this one, as it is quite a divergence from the sport-centred settings of her previous series. But Finest Kind of Fate has the same excellent writing, poignant emotions, and pure heart and love of her previous series. The relationship that forms between Ewan and Shiloh as they reconnect after 7 years apart is incredibly sweet and organic, and just perfectly written.
Finest Kind of Fate is a wonderful second chance, friends to lovers romance. Low angst, high feels. Cannot wait for the rest of the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you JJ Mulder for a copy of this book. This review is entirely my own.
Oh my heart this book. This book is so emotional, heart felt and will make you cry and smile. From start to finish this book is a pull on your heart strings.
Ewan left Siren's Point and his best friend, Shiloh, he hadn't meant to stay away for so long but time passed but he is back now. He has loved Shiloh for what feels like forever but he left and didn't reach out. Does that much time and space change what you know in your heart or does it just make it stronger?
Shiloh never left Siren's Point. He has a home and his boat, two crew members that might just be his friends and something that could be called a relationship. So why does he feel so lonely? And, why, when he sees Ewan again after all this time does it feel like loneliness isn't as strong as it once was?
This story tells a story of how time and distance doesn't mean much when fate is involved. Ewan and Shiloh are relearning each other, and in doing that they both find exactly what they were looking for.
This story pulled at my heartstrings. You can feel the pining, the love and the little bit of angst.
This is a book of second chances and finding that one person that can make you feel a little better just by their presence.
I am in love with this world and cannot wait to see if this author has stories with the side characters.
Oh my heart this book. This book is so emotional, heart felt and will make you cry and smile. From start to finish this book is a pull on your heart strings.
Ewan left Siren's Point and his best friend, Shiloh, he hadn't meant to stay away for so long but time passed but he is back now. He has loved Shiloh for what feels like forever but he left and didn't reach out. Does that much time and space change what you know in your heart or does it just make it stronger?
Shiloh never left Siren's Point. He has a home and his boat, two crew members that might just be his friends and something that could be called a relationship. So why does he feel so lonely? And, why, when he sees Ewan again after all this time does it feel like loneliness isn't as strong as it once was?
This story tells a story of how time and distance doesn't mean much when fate is involved. Ewan and Shiloh are relearning each other, and in doing that they both find exactly what they were looking for.
This story pulled at my heartstrings. You can feel the pining, the love and the little bit of angst.
This is a book of second chances and finding that one person that can make you feel a little better just by their presence.
I am in love with this world and cannot wait to see if this author has stories with the side characters.
February 22, 2026
I absolutely loved this! It was such a sweet and heartwarming second chance MM romance, and it really worked for me.
Seeing Shiloh and Ewan reunite after seven years apart and slowly figure things out again was cute and comforting. I loved how gentle and caring they were with each other. One of my favorite things was that Shiloh never truly held a grudge against Ewan or blamed him for leaving. He was mature and understood that it was something Ewan needed at the time. There was definitely some miscommunication, but honestly, I found it entertaining rather than frustrating. The ending was incredibly sweet, and it made me happy and satisfied.
It was a short, fun, and heartwarming read, and I’m glad I picked it up. I really hope Nils and Oli get their own book. It’s officially one of my most anticipated releases!!
Seeing Shiloh and Ewan reunite after seven years apart and slowly figure things out again was cute and comforting. I loved how gentle and caring they were with each other. One of my favorite things was that Shiloh never truly held a grudge against Ewan or blamed him for leaving. He was mature and understood that it was something Ewan needed at the time. There was definitely some miscommunication, but honestly, I found it entertaining rather than frustrating. The ending was incredibly sweet, and it made me happy and satisfied.
It was a short, fun, and heartwarming read, and I’m glad I picked it up. I really hope Nils and Oli get their own book. It’s officially one of my most anticipated releases!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fantastic book. I felt so many emotions while reading this story with all the feelings these characters brought to the book.
Ewan and Shiloh were best friends until Ewan decided to leave town due to many circumstances, leaving the only person he truly cares about.
This separation has impacted both of them, and the longing and loneliness have followed these two in those years apart.
Ewan returns to his hometown for a break in his career as a painter, and he is nervous to reunite with Shiloh. They both have to reinforce their friendship and navigate this new version of themselves.
Love the way this story handles their friendship and works its way for them to discover a new side of themselves. Preserving all the things they knew about each other before separating to form an incredible bond that leads them to explore deeper and more intimate feelings.
The setting of this book felt like a hug of returning home, and I just felt so connected to that aspect of the story. Love Ewan and Shiloh so much and can’t wait for more in this series!!
Ewan and Shiloh were best friends until Ewan decided to leave town due to many circumstances, leaving the only person he truly cares about.
This separation has impacted both of them, and the longing and loneliness have followed these two in those years apart.
Ewan returns to his hometown for a break in his career as a painter, and he is nervous to reunite with Shiloh. They both have to reinforce their friendship and navigate this new version of themselves.
Love the way this story handles their friendship and works its way for them to discover a new side of themselves. Preserving all the things they knew about each other before separating to form an incredible bond that leads them to explore deeper and more intimate feelings.
The setting of this book felt like a hug of returning home, and I just felt so connected to that aspect of the story. Love Ewan and Shiloh so much and can’t wait for more in this series!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Finest Kind of Fate by J.J. Mulder, releasing February 27, 2026 — and honestly, this one hit me right in the feelings.
Two childhood best friends finding their way back to each other? Yes, please.
Ewan returns to his hometown after seven years, running from his past trauma and now hoping being home will cure his artistic block. Watching the story unfold, I was torn between wanting to protect Shiloh’s heart… and Ewan’s. 💔
As their past slowly comes to light, you can’t help but root for both of them to finally get the love they deserve — together. This book is written so beautifully, with so much heart for its characters. I already can’t wait for the next book in the series.
⭐ 4 stars | 🌶️ 2 spice
📖 ARC provided
Two childhood best friends finding their way back to each other? Yes, please.
Ewan returns to his hometown after seven years, running from his past trauma and now hoping being home will cure his artistic block. Watching the story unfold, I was torn between wanting to protect Shiloh’s heart… and Ewan’s. 💔
As their past slowly comes to light, you can’t help but root for both of them to finally get the love they deserve — together. This book is written so beautifully, with so much heart for its characters. I already can’t wait for the next book in the series.
⭐ 4 stars | 🌶️ 2 spice
📖 ARC provided
February 22, 2026
“I don’t want to be an anchor holding him down, but I do want to be the port he returns to.”
Oh these two are one emotion rollercoaster. This is the type of second chance I love. To many things holding them back when they were all but still children only to realise as adults they messed up.
Ewan’s are little broken boy, it’s so clear in his journey throughout the book how broken he is. But the way you can literally see how Shiloh helps him out back together all the broken pieces is beautiful. I love the way that even when Shiloh is an anxious wreck about Ewan not returning that he isn’t enough, Ewan shows him how he’s not the same person as before. His emotional growth is so stunning.
Shiloh is the strong pillar from the beginning, he’s the constant rock for Ewan. I loved how sweet and caring he was, even when he thought Ewan wanted nothing to do with him for years he was always there a silent support. And once he finally gets Ewan I love how determined he is to make sure they can stay together, no matter the cost.
I really enjoyed the side characters and I can’t wait until some of the get their chance to tell their story. *cough* Shilohs sternman *cough*.
This story was really different from what we’ve seen from JJ before but it’s even more beautiful for it. I can’t wait for more from Sirens Point.
“For the first time in seven years, he’s here not only in spirit but in body as well. I don’t mean to lose this.”
Oh these two are one emotion rollercoaster. This is the type of second chance I love. To many things holding them back when they were all but still children only to realise as adults they messed up.
Ewan’s are little broken boy, it’s so clear in his journey throughout the book how broken he is. But the way you can literally see how Shiloh helps him out back together all the broken pieces is beautiful. I love the way that even when Shiloh is an anxious wreck about Ewan not returning that he isn’t enough, Ewan shows him how he’s not the same person as before. His emotional growth is so stunning.
Shiloh is the strong pillar from the beginning, he’s the constant rock for Ewan. I loved how sweet and caring he was, even when he thought Ewan wanted nothing to do with him for years he was always there a silent support. And once he finally gets Ewan I love how determined he is to make sure they can stay together, no matter the cost.
I really enjoyed the side characters and I can’t wait until some of the get their chance to tell their story. *cough* Shilohs sternman *cough*.
This story was really different from what we’ve seen from JJ before but it’s even more beautiful for it. I can’t wait for more from Sirens Point.
“For the first time in seven years, he’s here not only in spirit but in body as well. I don’t mean to lose this.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Narrative: 📕📘📗📓📒
Angst: Moderate to High
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Humor: 😆😆😆
Heart: 💧💧💧💧💧
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Burn Time: Moderate
There is something about childhood friends and long distance pinning that just gets me. These charachter, though, are built of so much more. The nuance in there exchanges that touches on a lifetime of unspoken energy that neither pointed out or spoke about just gets under your skin in the best way.
Mulder just knows how to make everything work without shoving down your throat. This new series is living up to expectations we have from their prior works and I can see the next pairing through the misty Bayside fog...
Angst: Moderate to High
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Humor: 😆😆😆
Heart: 💧💧💧💧💧
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Burn Time: Moderate
There is something about childhood friends and long distance pinning that just gets me. These charachter, though, are built of so much more. The nuance in there exchanges that touches on a lifetime of unspoken energy that neither pointed out or spoke about just gets under your skin in the best way.
Mulder just knows how to make everything work without shoving down your throat. This new series is living up to expectations we have from their prior works and I can see the next pairing through the misty Bayside fog...
Review of advance copy received from Author
So we’re entering a new universe and although i sounded rather cozy in my mind this one is set in a heavy tone from the start.
Whereas in the other books/universes i felt there was more of a struggles coming from outside sources. The ones facing Shiloh and Ewan feel like coming from deep within.
Their struggles with themselves, their pasts and even with the town of Siren’s Point paint a bleak picture that only a change of perspective reveals more hopeful tones.
Always asking the question: How do you find a real (second/first) chance at love when you kind of lost yourself?
In all i loved the journey and I am hopeful
this will be another great series in a series of good series.
Whereas in the other books/universes i felt there was more of a struggles coming from outside sources. The ones facing Shiloh and Ewan feel like coming from deep within.
Their struggles with themselves, their pasts and even with the town of Siren’s Point paint a bleak picture that only a change of perspective reveals more hopeful tones.
Always asking the question: How do you find a real (second/first) chance at love when you kind of lost yourself?
In all i loved the journey and I am hopeful
this will be another great series in a series of good series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve read numerous JJ Mulder books so I thought I knew what to expect. This surprised me a bit. Both of the MCs are strong, but also very fragile. Neither seems to have emotionally recovered from Ewan’s departure. It’s an emotional book. Your heart hurts for Ewan and Shiloh and roots for them to find their way back to one another. It’s also a slow burn, closed door romance, which I wasn’t expecting. There’s interesting side characters in Siren’s Point as well. At least two more stories to explore and I’d enjoy reading them! Thanks for the opportunity to read.
Review of advance copy
This was a beautiful childhood friends to lovers second chance romance. Ewan and Shiloh were incredibly intimate and even with it being very low spice you can still feel the chemistry they have coming off the page. Ewan’s inner monologue was heartbreaking at times. I loved these two and thoroughly enjoyed this story. Can’t wait to hopefully see snippets of these two in future books. I am very intrigued by the side characters and while Roy comes off as an a** I am very curious on his backstory.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If JJ writes it, I’m gonna read it.
I’m not going to lie and say I wasn’t nervous at first. All I’ve read of JJ’s was her hockey books, and I’m very DEEP in my hockey smut era.
Let’s just say, I had nothing to fear. This second chance romance between an artist and a lobster fisherman stole my heart.
The romance, the yearning, it was all so beautifully done in a way only JJ does.
If you’re on the fence about this book, please just pick it up, it’ll be worth it.
I’m not going to lie and say I wasn’t nervous at first. All I’ve read of JJ’s was her hockey books, and I’m very DEEP in my hockey smut era.
Let’s just say, I had nothing to fear. This second chance romance between an artist and a lobster fisherman stole my heart.
The romance, the yearning, it was all so beautifully done in a way only JJ does.
If you’re on the fence about this book, please just pick it up, it’ll be worth it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another book I didn't know I needed in my life by J.J. Mulder! She is my favorite author for a reason. Ewan and Shiloh are everything! I love their relationship.
Review of advance copy received from Author
RTC. And you can bet your bottom dollar I will be purchasing this book in every format once it releases!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Full review to come! 🩷
Read
February 22, 2026…rtc. “I painted you, once.”
….
*I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
….
….
*I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
….
February 17, 2026
I loved everything about this book, the town the people who were more like family, the angst and the love.
Ewan and Shiloh were made for made for each other!
This just confirms my theory that if J.J. writes if I will Love it!
Ewan and Shiloh were made for made for each other!
This just confirms my theory that if J.J. writes if I will Love it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews